Alaska PFD 2025: $1,702 Stimulus Check Breakdown, Eligibility, Payment Dates & Risks
In 2025, Alaska’s Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) is delivering its highest payout in recent years—$1,702 per eligible resident. This year’s amount is split into two parts: $298.17 to cover energy expenses and $1,403.83 as a direct cash payment. The 30% increase over 2024 comes at a time when state revenues are shrinking and national politics are adding financial uncertainty.
In this article, we explain everything you need to know about the Alaska PFD stimulus check: who qualifies, how to claim it, payment dates, and whether the program is at risk in the future.
PFD 2025 Payment Amount and Breakdown
The total PFD check this year is $1,702 per person, divided into:
- $1,403.83 in cash
- $298.17 for energy assistance
This increase reflects efforts to support Alaskans during rising living costs and growing energy expenses—especially in remote areas. The funds come from Alaska’s Permanent Fund, which was established in 1976 to invest oil revenue for the long-term benefit of residents.
Who Is Eligible for the 2025 Alaska PFD?
To qualify for the PFD stimulus check, Alaska residents must meet three key requirements:
- Live in Alaska for at least one full calendar year prior to applying.
- Physically be present in the state for at least 72 hours within the past two years.
- Have no felony or certain misdemeanor convictions within the last year.
Only residents who submitted their PFD documentation by March 31, 2024, are eligible for the April 17, 2025 payment.
Missed the Deadline? Here’s What You Can Do
If you missed the March 31 deadline, you might still be eligible if your status is marked as “Eligible-Not Paid” before April 9, 2025. In that case, you can:
- Complete the process online through the Alaska Department of Revenue portal
- Or submit documents by traditional mail
Be warned: experts say delays could especially hurt rural households, where bank access is limited and digital services are slower.
Is the PFD Program at Risk in the Future?
While this year’s payout is generous, future payments could shrink significantly. Alaska is currently facing tough financial questions:
- Oil revenue is declining, reducing the main source of PFD funding.
- Public services like education need more money.
- Debates are intensifying in the Alaska legislature over how to keep the PFD sustainable.
Three major options are being considered:
- Withdraw from the Constitutional Budget Reserve (CBR) — Needs a two-thirds majority in the state legislature.
- Use more money directly from the Permanent Fund — May hurt the state’s financial stability and credit rating.
- Raise taxes — Faces firm opposition from Governor Mike Dunleavy, who has said he would veto any new tax increases.
Two proposals (SB 92 and SB 112) aimed at raising $340 million annually from oil companies are currently stuck in legislative discussions. Without a solution, future dividends could fall below $1,000 per person.
Unclaimed CARES Act Checks: April Deadline for Americans Abroad
While the focus is on Alaska’s PFD, another deadline is also approaching for Americans living abroad. Under the CARES Act, expats who never claimed their stimulus checks from 2020 still have a final chance—but only until April 15, 2024.
Eligible expats could receive:
- $1,200 per individual
- $2,400 per couple
- $500 per child
To qualify, you must have filed a 2018 or 2019 tax return or registered through the IRS system by November 21, 2020. If not, you’ll need to file a 2020 return using Form 1040 or 1040-SR with the Recovery Rebate Credit.
After April 15, 2024, unclaimed stimulus funds will be returned to the U.S. Treasury, and no further claims will be accepted.
How to Check Your CARES Payment Status
Use the IRS “Get My Payment” tool or consult with a tax professional for help. Even those with no recent tax filings can apply if they meet eligibility rules.
In 2025, Alaska’s PFD is providing a significant $1,702 check to support residents with both direct cash and energy assistance. But while the current year is generous, the future of the program is uncertain, with funding debates ongoing in the state legislature. Residents are encouraged to ensure eligibility, file early, and track payment status to avoid missing out.
At the same time, Americans abroad have just days left to claim uncollected CARES Act payments. Don’t wait—April 15 is the final deadline.
